8 free things to do in Montreal this week
Fun, festive and FREE.
A person performing stand-up in Montreal. Right: A dance session at Parc Jean-Drapeau.
Montreal — returning from a long weekend might be tough, but it means we've got a whole new week ahead of us and plenty of free things to do in Montreal.
With non-stop festivals, new restaurant openings, and tons of shows to catch this month, you might be interested in giving your wallet a break. Luckily, we've compiled a list of events, activities, and festivals taking place across the city that won't cost you a dime.
From free trivia nights and yoga sessions to comedy shows, open mic nights, and cabaret performances, there's a little bit of everything for everyone.
Here are 8 free things to do in Montreal this week (June 24 to 30):
Enjoy a free queer cabaret night
When: Friday, June 28 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Where: 90, boul. Lévesque E.
Why You Need To Go: This queer cabaret and open mic night is the perfect place to express yourself, have fun, and meet new people. Whether you want to perform on stage, sing, read a text, or simply enjoy the show, you are welcome. Admission is free and the show is for all ages, LGBTQ+ individuals, and allies. The performance will be in French and public transit tickets will be available for those in need. Furthermore, non-alcoholic drinks and snacks will also be provided. Note that there are a few steps to access the venue.
Playful workshop in the park
When: Wednesday, June 26 from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Robin des Bois — Parc La Fontaine
Why You Need To Go: Join comedian and therapist Sandy for a unique, complimentary, and “Outdoor in the Park” workshop experience: “A Date with Misery.” In this enlightening session, Sandy will skillfully navigate participants through a journey of embracing and confronting our inner struggles and heavy emotions. Through a blend of humour and therapeutic techniques, Sandy creates a safe space for individuals to sit with their difficulties and explore playful avenues for coping with misery.
Zen out with a free yoga session
When: Saturday, June 29 at 10 a.m.
Where: Quai-de-la-Tortue — 5900, boul. LaSalle
Why You Need To Go: You can zen out at this free yoga session in the park. The event is open to all ages and levels, and will be completely biliingual, this way everyone can participate. You will be guided by yoga instructor Carla Conde while overlooking the Saint Lawrence River. While the event is free to attend, donations are welcome.
Learn to cook Indian cuisine
When: Wednesday, June 26 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: CANA — 10780, rue Laverdue
Why You Need To Go: For those who enjoy cooking and discovering new recipes from different cultures, this event offers an opportunity to cook, share, and learn about various dishes from around the world, regardless of the language spoken. This edition will focus on Indian cuisine, allowing participants to cook and share an Indian meal together. The workshop is free and open to all ages and languages.
Get creative at a community picnic paint session
When: Wednesday, June 26 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where: 1090, av. Greene
Why You Need To Go: For those who love painting murals and are interested in creating art without clutter, this is your chance to participate in a community mural project on our picnic table. No experience is required, as local artist Joshua Onazi will guide participants in creating a lasting piece of beauty in our garden to be enjoyed for years to come.
Laugh it up at a comedy open mic night
When: Wednesday, June 26 at 8 p.m.
Where: Bar Au P'tit Buck — 2480, rue Jean-Talon E.
Why You Need To Go: This light-hearted comedy evening offers a unique show open to all performers, featuring both established Quebec stand-up stars testing new jokes and amateurs taking the stage for the first time. The Vrai Open Mic Saint-Michel is located at P'tit Buck, a recently renovated neighbourhood tavern situated across from the Iberville metro station on the blue line, with nearby street parking available. The show is free entry, with doors opening at 7 p.m., sign-ups beginning at 7:30 p.m., and the show will begin at 8 p.m. The event is exclusive to those 18 years and older. Ages 18+. Please note that even if it is marked as sold out online, there is space available on Wednesday night.
Catch a summer sunset
When: All summer long
Where: Various parts of Montreal
Why You Need To Go: Whether you're looking to revamp your Instagram feed, spend a little one-on-one time with Mother Nature, or want a cute backdrop for a date night, you really can't go wrong with any of these Montreal destinations. Some of the best places in Montreal to catch the sunset include St. Joseph's Oratory, Beaver Lake, and Parc René-Levesque.
Test your knowledge at a trivia night
When: Tuesday, June 25 at 7 p.m.
Where: Church St. Pub — 555, rue de l'Église
Why You Need To Go: This weekly trivia night is hosted by Quiz Master Brian, offering participants an evening of fun and challenging trivia questions. Attendees can expect a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal social event for friends and trivia enthusiasts to test their knowledge across various topics. Please note that the night is open to teams of two to six and only people who get their tickets together will be seated together — no single participants or single reservations are allowed.
This article's cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.